Residents at the Masonic Homes at Elizabethtown wanted to do more than say a simple "thank you" to the employees of their community. So they planned a "Thanks for the Services ­ Employee Appreciation Evening" on Aug. 12, when they demonstrated not only their appreciation but also their talents for the employees' enjoyment.

More than 400 employees and approximately 200 of their guests attended the event, which was planned and funded by residents across the campus and held in the Brossman Ballroom.

Ginny Schrecker, First Vice President of the Retirement Living Residents' Association, chaired a committee of residents that organized the evening's events: a buffet dinner; door prizes including gift certificates to area restaurants; a video produced by Bro. Warren Nace of residents' testimonials commending the Masonic Homes' staff, a poem, choral renditions; party favors designed by resident Elaine Bleiler; and photos by Bro. William Boone. Bro. Henry Clay, the Retirement Living Residents' Association President, was the emcee; Bro. Nace, the D.J.; and Bro. Charles Cornelius entertained as a comedian.